Internet Safety

In our ever changing world it is inevitable that our children will come into contact with, and use, technology. All parents and pupils are required to sign a declaration about the safe use of IT. If you have any concerns or want advice about e-safety at home we are more than willing to help.

We suggest that your child uses a search engine designed for children. Links to these can be found on the links for parents and links for children pages.

Your child will be taught to use the internet safely at regular times during the year.

Here are some guidelines for staying safe on line:

2) Think carefully before posting pictures or videos of yourself. Once you’ve put a picture of yourself online most people can see it and may be able to download it, it’s not just yours anymore.

3) Keep your privacy settings as high as possible

4) Never give out your passwords

5) Don’t befriend people you don’t know

6) Don’t meet up with people you’ve met online. Speak to your parent or carer about people suggesting you do

7) Remember that not everyone online is who they say they are

8) Think carefully about what you say before you post something online

9) Respect other people’s views, even if you don’t agree with someone else’s views doesn’t mean you need to be rude

10) If you see something online that makes you feel uncomfortable, unsafe or worried: leave the website, turn off your computer if you want to and tell a trusted adult immediately.

If you feel you are being bullied on line, here is what to do:

1) Tell an adult you trust if you are being cyberbullied

2) Don’t respond or retaliate to bullying messages – it could make things worse

3) Block users who send you nasty messages

4) Save abusive emails or messages (or texts) you receive

5) Make a note of dates and times you receive bullying messages, as well as details you have of the user’s ID and the url.

6) Don’t pass on any cyberbullying videos or messages – this is cyberbullying

7) If you are bullied repeatedly change your user ID, or profile, and use a name that doesn’t give any information away about you

8) Visit bullying.co.uk – this is a website where trained counsellors can support you if you are being bullied, either by chatting online or by calling their free helpline. You can also find some top tips on how to stay safe – http://www.bullying.co.uk/

NSPCC

The NSPCC can offer lots of advice and help for you and your child. Click here to find out more.

RBSCB

If you would like more information about keeping your child safe then you can click here to follow the link to the Rochdale Borough Safeguarding Children Board. This site is full of relevant information for parents and carers.